Tirzepatide-Induced Injection Site Reaction

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are widely used for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity.
• Injection site reactions are known potential adverse events associated with GLP-1 RA therapy.
• Patient history of subcutaneous dulaglutide use without adverse events.

Observation:

• A male patient in his 70s presented with a lower abdominal rash.
• The rash emerged subsequent to transitioning from dulaglutide to tirzepatide subcutaneous injections.
• Symptomatic improvement was noted upon cessation of tirzepatide.

Findings:

• This case represents the first reported instance of an injection site reaction specifically linked to tirzepatide.
• The adverse reaction occurred despite prior tolerance to another GLP-1 RA (dulaglutide).
• Tirzepatide may elicit local cutaneous reactions at the injection site.

Implications:

• Clinicians should be aware of tirzepatide's potential for causing injection site reactions, even in patients previously treated with other GLP-1 RAs.
• Further investigation into the specific mechanisms underlying tirzepatide-induced injection site reactions is warranted.
• This finding contributes to the broader understanding of adverse event profiles for incretin-based therapies.